Different problems that prohibit a macOS device from communicating with wireless peripherals and accessories can be fixed by restarting Bluetooth on the computer. We’ll demonstrate how to do it and when.
Resetting Bluetooth is one method of troubleshooting if you have issues using a wireless device on your iMac, Mac mini, or MacBook Pro/Air. There are various methods for doing that.
The malfunctioning Bluetooth device can be disconnected and reconnected, your Mac’s Bluetooth module can be reset, or the Bluetooth preferences file for the operating system can be deleted. Additionally, the NVRAM can be reset.
When Should You Reset Bluetooth on Mac
Despite establishing a connection, Bluetooth devices can fail to pair with your Mac or behave erratically for a variety of reasons. Standard troubleshooting may not be enough to fix the problem, so you may need to do a Bluetooth reset.
This usually entails restarting the Bluetooth module on the Mac, resetting the broken Bluetooth connection, or forcing the operating system to build a new Bluetooth preferences file. For major Bluetooth difficulties, you can also reset the NVRAM on Intel Macs.
Before resetting Bluetooth on your Mac, we advise that you go through the instructions below if you haven’t already tried troubleshooting the device in question.
Verify the compatibility
It’s best to rule out any potential compatibility problems if a Bluetooth device won’t link with your Mac. It can be the case that the device doesn’t support the Mac at all, like the Apple Watch, or that it needs a more recent version of macOS. For information regarding compatibility, consult the device package or the manufacturer’s website.
Introduce It to Discovery
Without first making the Bluetooth device discoverable, pairing it with a Mac might not be possible. It can entail going to the Bluetooth options screen on an iPhone or depressing the Easy-Switch button on a Logitech MX Master to accomplish it. For more detailed directions, once more check the package or the manufacturer’s website.
A closer look at the device
Although Bluetooth has a reasonable range (around 30 feet), you shouldn’t take it for granted. Bring the device closer to your Mac if you are having trouble pairing it or the connection keeps dropping.
Reset or restart the gadget
Have you attempted to restart or reset the aforementioned device? Try that if not. For instance, this is how to reset a pair of AirPods that refuse to perform as intended. In the interim, it’s a good idea to reset your Mac.
Keep Bluetooth interference at bay
Interference with Bluetooth can also be a problem. Before attempting to pair or use the device with your Mac once more, try stepping away from common sources of interference, such as unshielded power lines, kitchen appliances, and Wi-Fi routers.
Device charging
Another cause of unpredictable behavior while using a Bluetooth device often is a device with low battery life. Check to see if it works differently after charging it or changing its batteries.
Update Mac and device firmware
Another potential cause of continuous connectivity problems with Bluetooth is outdated firmware on Bluetooth devices. Check to see if updating it makes a difference. For instance, this is how to update a pair of AirPods with the latest firmware.
It’s a good idea to update Mac’s system software while you’re at it. Open the Apple menu and choose System Preferences > Software Update to check for new macOS updates.
Install Support Software
You may need to install additional drivers or companion apps for some Bluetooth peripherals, such as mouse, speakers, printers, etc., in order for them to function properly. Visit the manufacturer’s website and browse the Downloads section for any necessary software, such as Logitech Options that you could download.
Bluetooth Connection Reset
Starting resetting the Bluetooth connection is necessary if the malfunctioning Bluetooth device has already been paired with your Mac. For that:
1. Select System Preferences from the Apple menu by opening it.
2. Decide on the Bluetooth category.
3. Select the Remove button after highlighting the Bluetooth device (shaped like an X). Alternatively, you can Control-click the object and choose Remove from the context menu.
4. To confirm, select Remove once more.
5. Re-pair the Bluetooth device with your Mac by going through the pairing process again.
Delete Bluetooth Module on Mac
You must reset the Mac’s Bluetooth module if unpairing and repairing the device with your computer doesn’t work (or if you have difficulties pairing it in the first place). Depending on the macOS version, the procedure varies.
Early versions of macOS Big Sur
1. Holding down the Shift + Option keys, click the Bluetooth icon in the menu bar (or open the Control Center if you can’t see it).
2. Select Reset the Bluetooth Module from the Debug menu after opening it. The selection needs to be accessible from the primary Bluetooth menu in macOS Big Sur alone.
3. Choosing OK will confirm. All Bluetooth accessories will automatically disconnect and reconnect.
Note: If an Apple Bluetooth product (such as the Magic Mouse or Trackpad) is giving you trouble, you can utilize the Bluetooth menu’s Factory reset all connected Apple devices option to restore the device to its original settings.
later versions of the macOS
1. On the Mac, open the Launchpad and choose Other > Terminal.
2. enter after you type the following command:
pkill bluetoothd with sudo
3. Enter once more after entering the administrator password for your Mac.
Uninstall the Bluetooth Preferences file
By deleting the PLIST file that stores your Mac’s Bluetooth preferences, you can carry on analyzing Bluetooth connectivity issues. That ought to fix any problems brought on by a bad Bluetooth configuration.
1. Go to the route below in Finder by choosing to Go > Go to Folder on the menu bar:
/Library/Preferences
2. Move to Trash by selecting the following file with control or right-click.
com.apple.Bluetooth.plist
3. Start your Mac again. Upon starting, the operating system will automatically create the file.
Note: If Bluetooth continues to give you problems, access the Trash and retrieve the deleted file.
Restore NVRAM (or PRAM)
Non-volatile random-access memory, or NVRAM, is where your Mac’s Bluetooth and other hardware-related memories are stored. As long as the Mac utilizes an Intel chipset, you can attempt resetting it.
Note: Before you start, USB-connect your wireless keyboard to your Mac if you’re using one.
1. Turn off your Mac.
2. Turn your Mac back on by pressing and holding the Option, Command, P, and R keys.
3. Till you hear the Mac chime twice, keep holding the keys down. Hold the keys down until you see the Apple logo for the second time if you have an Intel Mac with an Apple T2 Security Chip.
Continue if resetting the NVRAM is ineffective by resetting the System Management Controller (SMC) on the Mac.
If the Problem Continues
If the Bluetooth issue doesn’t go away, the Bluetooth device can be broken and has to be replaced. If it functions without a hitch on other devices, the Bluetooth hardware in your Mac may be to blame. Contact Apple Support Alternatively, make an appointment at the nearby Genius Bar.